Brutal

Today is my long run day. Regardless of any training program the long(er) run is still a very important part of a long distance runners regime. So with that mentality I set out with 15 miles on the mind today. The majority of the distance was on trails. These trails really take it out of you. Lots of larger stones and rocks so it's really very rough. I enjoy it but it really sucks the energy. I pushed up "Cobb Ridge" with the goal of making it to Highway "H". I made it to the Highway but I knew I was in deep doo doo as I turned for home. My water was running out, and I felt like I needed to walk. I was nearly toast and still 7 miles from home and the trail loomed ahead.

I knew that I had two choices, sit down and die, or keep pushing for home and water. So I began to walk, jog, walk, jog, etc. All the way home. When I got in I saw that it was 93 degrees with 66% humidity. I was definitely drained. I have to think that this run will be beneficial to my long distance running, but it is an entirely different style of running. I did a lot of exploring today, too. I took a few rugged trails that shot off the main trail. I came across an old falling down house! In the middle of the forest! I stood there wondering about what the people were like, what life was like those many years ago when someone lived here? Oh, I saw a Raccoon today, too!

So, 14.42 miles in the books. I will rest tomorrow and Wednesday is my "rolling Hills" run.

Saw one Mountain Biker today. Funny? He passed me and didn't say anything...odd? Then up ahead he jumps off his bike, throws off his helmet, lays down the bike and walks around in circles with his hands on his hips, (I'm thinking..."Back away very slowly") I ask him if he's okay and he says yeah, just sucking air. So I move along, never to see him again?!

Hope all's well with you!

Into the Woods

13 miles today. The first 10k was a pretty decent pace but the degree of difficulty began to take its toll on my pace. Trail running is a delight but it is also harder than pavement running. I made it up to Cobb ridge and found the campground today. I also hit pavement and was nearing HWY "H" . This is all in Mark Twain National Forest.

On the way back I was blessed with a deer sighting. A good looking buck. You should of seen him! Majestic is the word! He saw me and up went the white tail and off he went. I saw some blue birds today, too.

I carried water and one gel today. I need additional fluids so I'm thinking about adding a hand held water bottle. Seems when I hydrate I'm good for a while, I'll sweat good, but then it's gone. I require lots of fluids, esp on these sultry days.

Saw a nesting Hawk on the way back, a rarity! You should of heard her screaming at me!

I wanted to walk during the 2K hill but I kept a jogging form going. I was proud of this effort. My training program now consists of a long trail run, rolling hills, track work. I believe this will prove to be an excellent program. We shall see. Peace!!

S.A.I.D.

I ran 11.71 miles today. I went into the forest and man was it wonderful! Not a car or a person for 10 miles! The specific adaption to imposed demands principal is at work in me right now. I am running hills and trails and I've never had this persistent, consistent demand imposed. I have lost four pounds this last month even with lesser miles!?
I was really feeling the demand on my legs, ankles, and lungs today. The 2K hill was on the return but I experienced a hill today on the trail portion even longer and steeper, the Garmin said a 400 foot rise over 1.4 miles.
I made it to a place called "Cobb Ridge." It was absolutely spectacular! I really sensed the awe of God today! The pine trees lining the road/trail, the wind singing through the trees. It was a delight!
I'm really beat but I am expecting increased strength because of this run. Peace!